{% include "includes/auth/janrain/signIn_traditional.html" with message='It looks like you are already verified. If you still have trouble signing in, you probably need a new confirmation link email.' %}

GOP unveils bill to toughen checks on Syrian refugees

GOP leaders in the House have rolled out a bill that would slow down the admission of Syrian refugees in the United States, mainly by adding in a series of national security checks, certifications and background investigations by both U.S. law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

The plan is to hold a vote on the “American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act” on Thursday, before lawmakers leave for a Thanksgiving break.

While top Republicans had talked about a “pause” in allowing Syrian refugees into the U.S., this plan would achieve that by adding extra layers of checks:

+ Each refugee would need a review by the Department of Homeland Security

+ The GOP plan also requires the FBI to take “all actions necessary” for a “thorough background investigation” before someone can be admitted to the U.S. as a refugee

+ The FBI and the Director of National Intelligence would have to certify that there has been a “background investigation that is sufficient to determine” whether the refugee “is a threat to the security of the United States.”